Jan Claasz of de gewaande dienstmaagd: Saartje Jans ten huwelijk gevraagd 1754

This print, Jan Claasz of de gewaande dienstmaagd: Saartje Jans ten huwelijk gevraagd, was made by Pieter Tanjé in the 18th century, using engraving. Engraving is a printmaking technique where the design is cut into a metal plate, often copper. The incised lines hold ink, and when pressed onto paper, create the image. The precision of the engraving allows for fine lines and intricate detail as you can see here. This print is very much about the material culture of marriage and class. Consider the clothing of the figures: the fine cloth, buckles, and hats, which speak to a certain level of prosperity. The interior setting is full of material details too: wooden beams, furniture, and framed artworks. The work asks us to consider not only the social rituals represented, but the labor and resources required to create this kind of domestic environment. Recognizing the social context embedded in these images reminds us that art is always intertwined with everyday life.